Today we may get our first bout of severe weather of the season, as storms are expected to develop later this evening. With severe weather season upon us, it’s important to know some weather terminology when it comes to severe weather. First, a Severe Thunderstorm Watch is issued when severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued. The watch area is typically large, covering numerous counties or even states, with location and timing uncertain.
Second, a Severe Thunderstorm Warning is issued when severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Tae shelter inside. Warnings typically include a much smaller area, like the size of a city or small county that may be impacted by large hail or damaging wind.
A Tornado Watch is issued when conditions are right for tornadoes to occur in an area. Again, the watch area could be rather large. A Tornado Warning is issued when a tornado has been sighted or indicated on radar. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property. Get out of mobile homes that can blow over in high winds. Move to an interior room on the lowest floor of a shelter. Avoid windows.
Keep your eyes to the sky and have multiple ways to get weather information; television, a NOAA Radio and stay tuned to KOFO for up-to-the-minute weather information for our area.
